Description

This Black Bean & Spicy Beef Pasta is a hearty, flavorful dish combining tender pasta shells with a spicy beef ragu enhanced by black beans, roasted red peppers, and a touch of chipotle for extra heat. Creamy double cream and mature cheddar add richness, while fresh parsley finishes the dish with a bright note. Perfect for a cozy dinner that packs a punch in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

300g pasta shells

Sauce & Mix-ins

1 tbsp rapeseed oil
5 spring onions, finely sliced
2 garlic cloves, crushed
400g can black beans, drained and rinsed
3 roasted red peppers from a jar, drained and finely chopped
200g sweetcorn (canned or frozen)
25g taco seasoning
1 tbsp chipotle paste (optional)
400g leftover beef ragu
50ml double cream

Toppings

100g mature cheddar, grated
Small handful of parsley, chopped

Instructions

Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta shells for 2 minutes less than the package instructions indicate. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to keep warm.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat the rapeseed oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the finely sliced spring onions and crushed garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly softened, releasing their flavors.
Add Vegetables and Seasoning: Into the pan, add the drained black beans, chopped roasted red peppers, and sweetcorn. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir in the chipotle paste if using. Fry this mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring well to evenly coat and release aromas.
Incorporate Leftover Ragu: Stir the leftover beef ragu into the pan along with a splash of water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, ensuring the sauce is thoroughly heated and flavors meld together.
Finish Sauce and Combine: Stir in the double cream to add richness and soften the spice tones. Then fold the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring every shell is well coated. Season to taste with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle the grated mature cheddar over each serving. Garnish with the chopped parsley for freshness and a pop of color. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Cooking pasta slightly under the recommended time ensures it won’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Chipotle paste is optional but adds a smoky heat; adjust quantity to your spice tolerance.
Using leftover beef ragu helps reduce cooking time and adds depth of flavor.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef ragu with a plant-based ragout or extra beans and vegetables.
Freshly grated mature cheddar adds sharpness that complements the spiciness of the dish.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Fusion

Keywords: spicy beef pasta, black bean pasta, pasta shells recipe, taco seasoned pasta, chipotle pasta, leftover ragu recipe, easy weeknight dinner